Share this article in:

2012 toyota rav4 Model Overview

Overall Rating:

StarStarStarNo-StarNo-Star

3 of 5

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is available with two powertrain options. The RAV4’s base engine is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder rated at 179 hp, mated to an aging four-speed automatic transmission. Those looking for more power will want to opt for the 269 horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 and five-speed automatic combo that launches the RAV4 from 0-60 mph in just a tad over six seconds. Both engines are available in front or all-wheel drive configurations.

RAV4 customers have their choice among three trim levels: base, Sport and Limited. Air conditioning, an auxiliary jack, and keyless entry are all standard, while navigation, leather, and power seats are just a few of the optional features available depending on trim level.

Credited with starting the cute-ute craze back in 1996, the Toyota RAV4 has been one of Toyota’s best sellers ever since due to a versatile interior and smooth, car-like ride. And with a passenger capacity of seven and up to 73 cubic feet of cargo room, the 2012 Toyota RAV4’s overall interior space rivals that of many larger SUVs.

Body style: Crossover SUV

Engines: 2.5L I-4, 3.5L V-6

Transmissions: 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic

Models: Base, Sport, Limited

The 2012 Toyota RAV4 continues with few changes. All models will get a new audio system with an updated head unit. Sport and Limited models will become available with Toyota’s new Entune infotainment system, which adds a long list of high-tech functionality. Entune has the ability to connect with and control personal smart phones via voice control or vehicle buttons. Entune will also feature a number of mobile apps including Pandora, Bing, MovieTickets.com, and OpenTable.

The RAV4 has grown with each generation. The current model has an overall length of 181.9 inches, which is almost 20 inches longer than the first-gen, four-door RAV4 that debuted back in 1996. The signature side-hinged rear door is standard and features an exterior-mounted spare tire. An appearance package features a unique rear hatch that removes the spare tire (run flats are used). The RAV4 comes standard with 17-inch wheels, while the Sport model adds visual interest with 18-inch wheels and blackout headlamp housing.

The 2012 RAV4 comes standard with seating for five passengers, though optional third-row seats boosts capacity to seven. And with up to 73 cubic feet of cargo room, interior space is another strong selling point for the RAV4. Cloth seats are standard, but customers will have the choice to upgrade to leather surfaces by opting for the Sport or Limited models equipped with a Premium package. A sunroof is optional on all trims, while privacy glass is standard on the Sport and Limited models.

The RAV4’s standard 2.5-liter, 179-hp four-cylinder engine mated to an outdated four speed automatic should be adequate for most situations, but those who plan to haul lots of passengers and cargo on a regular basis should opt for the 3.5-liter V-6. The stronger engine is rated at 269 hp, which leads many crossovers in the segment. The six-cylinder is mated to a five-speed automatic and propels the RAV4 from 0-60 mph in about six seconds. The electric power steering provides good feel and the independent suspension keeps the ride comfortable and quiet.

Six airbags are standard on the RAV4, including curtain airbags that offer protect for the first two rows of seats. Also standard is Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes a long list of features including Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). The RAV4 also includes driver and passenger side active headrests, which reduces the chance of whip lash injury.

2012 Toyota RAV4 Pricing

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

$22,650

Certified Pre Owned Pricewhat is this?

$16,750

Certified Pre-Owned Price is the approximate price a consumer can expect to pay at a dealership for a used vehicle that has passed the manufacturer's certification process. This price applies only to vehicles covered under an automaker's CPO program, not to a dealership's own "certified" used price.

Recalls

Recall ID#13V014000 - SEATS

Consequence

If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.

Remedy

Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.

Units Affected

3235

Recall ID#13V123000 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Consequence

An inaccurate label could lead to owners overloading their vehicles and tires. An overloaded vehicle can result in a tire failure which may result in a vehicle crash, personal injury, or property damage.

Southeast Toyota will notify owners and provide a corrected label with instructions concerning its installation. A small group of the affected vehicles will need additonal remedies which are still being developed. The recall began on May 28, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.

If this occurs, these systems could become inoperative, reducing the directional control assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Toyota Tacoma and Lexus RX350 vehicles and certain model year 2012 Toyota Rav4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the brake system contains a brake actuator that adjusts the fluid pressure of each wheel cylinder. An electrical component within the actuator may experience an increased resistance resulting in the illumination of various warning lights, including those for the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, Antilock Brake System (ABS), and Traction Control system.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and Toyota and Lexus dealers will update the software for the Skid Control electronic control unit, free of charge. The recall began on March 28, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Units Affected

261114

Recall ID#14V054000 - ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

Consequence

If this occurs, these systems could become inoperative, reducing the directional control assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Toyota Tacoma and Lexus RX350 vehicles and certain model year 2012 Toyota Rav4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the brake system contains a brake actuator that adjusts the fluid pressure of each wheel cylinder. An electrical component within the actuator may experience an increased resistance resulting in the illumination of various warning lights, including those for the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, Antilock Brake System (ABS), and Traction Control system.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and Toyota and Lexus dealers will update the software for the Skid Control electronic control unit, free of charge. The recall began on March 28, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Units Affected

261114

Recall ID#15V143000 - HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM

Consequence

A loss of drive power may increase the risk of a crash.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Toyota Motor Engineering & manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Rav4 EV vehicles manufactured July 24, 2012, to August 29, 2014. Due to a software issue within a component of the Electric Vehicle Traction Motor Assembly, the electric propulsion motor may shift to "neutral" resulting in a possible loss of drive power.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the Electric Vehicle Traction Motor Assembly software, free of charge. The recall began on September 10, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.

Units Affected

2497

Recall ID#13V014000 - AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

Consequence

If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.

Remedy

Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.

Units Affected

3235

Recall ID#15V577000 - VISIBILITY/WIPER

Consequence

Over time, the dripping water may cause corrosion and wear at the joint, potentially resulting in the separation of the wiper linkage. Once this occurs, the wipers would not function, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 RAV4 vehicles manufactured October 27, 2008, to December 19, 2012 and 2012-2014 RAV4 EV vehicles manufactured July 24, 2012, to August 29, 2014. In the affected vehicles, water may drip onto the joint that connects the wiper linkage to the wiper motor.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water diverter channel. In addition, a new wiper linkage with a wiper motor crank arm will be installed. The wiper linkage will have a protective cover over the wiper linkage joint to minimize water splash and a retainer ring to prevent the wiper arm from separating from the wiper motor. Owners were notified of an interim repair on March 21, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when the final remedy repair become available. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service number at 1-800-331-4331.

Units Affected

423456

Recall ID#16V096000 - SEAT BELTS:REAR

Consequence

A cut seat belt may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 RAV4 vehicles manufactured July 28, 2005, to December 19, 2012, and 2012-2014 RAV4 EV vehicles manufactured July 24, 2012, to August 29, 2014. In the event of a frontal collision, the rear seat belts for the outboard seats may be cut by the seat cushion frame.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install a protector over both rear seat cushion frames, free of charge. The recall began on June 24, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is G0F.

2012 Toyota RAV4 News and Reviews

When the new 2013 Toyota RAV4 reaches showrooms this January it will only be offered with a 176-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder mated to a six-speed automatic. A new report suggests Toyota could add a RAV4 hybrid option in the future.RAV4 deputy chief engineer Yoshikazu Saeki told Auto Express that a hybrid variant is definitely a possibility, especially if the market demands…

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 is one of the most significant vehicles the automaker will release next year and we just got our first glimpse of the new crossover at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show. Bill Fay, Toyota's Vice President and General Manager, barked off a few interesting stats during the press conference. Since the first-gen model was introduced to the…

Not content to let Ford or Honda steal its compact crossover thunder with the new 2013 Escape and 2012 CR-V, Toyota has announced that the next-generation 2013 Toyota RAV4 will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month, and released a short teaser of the new RAV4.As hinted by the RAV4s we've spotted testing and confirmed by Toyota's…

Honda Fit EVFor reasons that are completely tangential to this story, we recently had a pristine 1997 Acura NSX (yes, red) in our garage, and it sparked a conversation among us about Honda's increasingly erratic direction since that car. What modern Honda, we puzzled, has the old NSX's clarity of vision and sheer technical sparkle? After a moment, I said,…

As the Toyota RAV4 EV's on-sale date approaches, the Japanese automaker has announced the electric SUV's official EPA ratings. The 2012 Toyota RAV4 EV will be EPA-rated at 78/74 MPGe city/highway, or 76 mpg-e combined. The electrified SUV, which has an EPA-rated range of 103 miles, will start rolling into select California dealers on September 24 and will be offered…